The Truth about Legal Industry Trends and What the Future Holds

| Friday, November 4, 2011
By Ed Hulse


Many changes in the economy are recognized as having a great impact on legal industry trends and what the future holds for the esteemed profession. Many barristers are worried about the amount of money they can continue getting from their work.

One very important aspect is the effect recession has on the profession. Many attorneys have been badly affected by the economic downturns. While there is the desire to make financial break through during difficult times, it has been realized that this is perhaps a bit impossible given that the public is hard pressed.

The other finding that will have significant effects is the belief that education given in institutions focuses more on law. The art of running a firm is entirely ignored. Many would prefer to be taught business skills. This has made many students think they would rather go into different careers.

Clients and attorneys have diverse views about charges. For lawyers, customers are more worried about billing than quality of services. On the part of clients, they think that attorneys are only after money. When push comes to shove, many law firms will be forced to change billing structures in order to realize benefits from their work. There is the likelihood that they will start asking for per hour billing and not flat rates.

Since it has become rather difficult to operate as in the past, barristers now find it necessary to use social networking tools to link up with clients. Ordinarily, advertisements in the print media gave adequate exposure. But lawyers have realized they have to invest in online technology such as twitter, face book, linked in and YouTube. A virtual office can also be set up if one acquires telephones with suitable applications. These accord the opportunity to operate from homes and cut down on expenses incurred while hiring premises.

Alternative billing methods such as per hour billing rather than fixed rates per project will be adapted. While it is true that clients feel lawyers concentrate more on fees, this has to happen if barristers are to continue having profits. Partnerships with citizens in provision of justice are being done by forming citizens groups that work with law firms. They are measures meant to avoid lay offs




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